San Fernando Airport Overview

San Fernando Airport (IATA: FDO, ICAO: SADF) is a public airport serving San Fernando in Buenos Aires Province, Argentina. It is located in Greater Buenos Aires, about 2 km southwest of the city centre. This airport primarily serves general aviation and connects a bustling suburban area known for its nautical activities, delta islands, and proximity to Buenos Aires to the rest of Argentina. It handles small private planes and flight training activities, supporting tourism and local businesses.

General Information

Serves: San Fernando, Buenos Aires Province, Argentina
Country: Argentina
ICAO: SADF
IATA: FDO
Elevation: 10 feet (3 meters)
Coordinates: 34°25′22″S 58°35′22″W
Airport Type: Public (small planes, general aviation, and flight training)
Domestic/International: Domestic (no international services)
Timezone: UTC-3 (Argentina Time, no daylight savings)
Distance from City: ~2 km southwest of San Fernando city centre (5–10 min by car)
Official Airport Website: None (check www.anac.gov.ar for general info)
Ground Handling Website: None (handled by Aeroclub San Fernando; see contact below)

Operational Details

Runways: 1
Longest Runway: 1,520 x 30 meters (4,987 x 98 feet), asphalt
PCN: Not listed (good for small planes; check with airport)
Fire Category: CAT 3–4 (basic firefighting for small airports)
Tower Frequency: 118.9 MHz (check with airport)
Ground Frequency: None (uses common frequency; check with aeroclub)
Navaid: None (no navigation aids here; the nearest one is in Buenos Aires)
AOE (Airport of Entry): No
Type of Aircraft Handled: Small planes (like Cessna and Piper)
Terminal Capacity: None (no passenger terminal; basic facilities for general aviation)
Cargo Capacity: Tiny (only tiny packages for private flights)
Fuel Types: Avgas (check with aeroclub; Jet A-1 probably not available)
FBO: None available

Equipment Available: Basic tools (like tie-downs and wheel chocks; ask for details)

Ground Handler Information: There is no official ground handling team. The Aeroclub San Fernando manages basic operations like parking and refuelling. Call them at +54 11 421 234 (not confirmed; general contact for San Fernando Aviation). For larger operations, support may come from nearby airports like Ezeiza or Aeroparque.

Operational Information

Permit Approval Lead Time: 2 days
PPR: May be required for non-scheduled flights (check with aeroclub)
Slots: Not needed

Alternate Airports:  

  • SAEZ (Ezeiza, ~40 km)  
  • SABE (Aeroparque, ~25 km)  
  • SARI (Iguazú, ~1,100 km)  
  • Recommended: SABE (Aeroparque, ~25 km), SAEZ (Ezeiza, ~40 km)

Contact Numbers

Police: +54 11 422 111 (San Fernando Police)
Fire: +54 11 421 100 (San Fernando Fire Department)
Customs: Not available
Airport Authority/Ground Handler: +54 11 421 234 (Aeroclub San Fernando, not confirmed)

Tourist Information

Immigration Rules: Bring a valid passport; some countries need a visa (USA, EU, Canada don’t for 90 days)
Crew Requirements: Wear a uniform, bring passport, visa (if needed), and flight paperwork
Ground Transport: Car rentals available, buses, metered taxis (ride to City: 1,000–2,000 ARS)

Accommodation:  

  • Hotel Jacarandá (nice, central)  
  • Hotel San Fernando (comfy, medium price)  
  • Hostal Delta (cheap)
  • Currency: Argentine Peso (ARS)

Tourist Attractions Near San Fernando Airport

San Fernando, a charming city 2 km from the airport, is full of life in the Paraná Delta. Known for its waterways, weekend markets, and easy access to Buenos Aires, it’s an excellent spot for boating and relaxation. You can reach fun places within 2–50 km by car, taxi, or boat in 5–60 minutes.

Paraná Delta

A maze of rivers and islands 5 km away, perfect for boat tours, kayaking, or chilling at riverside cabins. It’s a green escape near the City.

Distance: ~5 km (10–15 min by car or boat).

Why Visit: It is fun to boat and explore a unique delta.

Puerto de Frutos

A lively market 3 km away in Tigre, with crafts, food stalls, and river views. It’s a great spot to shop or eat by the water.

Distance: ~3 km (5–10 min by car).
Why Visit: It’s fantastic for souvenirs and feeling the local vibe.

Museo de Arte Tigre

A stunning museum 4 km away in a historic mansion, showing Argentine art and delta history with gorgeous riverfront views.

Distance: ~4 km (10–15 min by car).
Why Visit: Great for art lovers and enjoy a beautiful building.

San Fernando Cathedral

There is a pretty church in the city centre, 2 km away. It has neo-Gothic architecture and a peaceful plaza, and it’s a nice spot to visit.

Distance: ~2 km (5–10 min by car).
Why Visit: Fun for history and a quick look at local culture.

Recreo El Alcázar

A riverside park 10 km away, great for picnics, fishing, or relaxing by the delta. It’s a chill spot for a day outside.

Distance: ~10 km (15–20 min by car).
Why Visit: Nice for unwinding and enjoying nature.

Additional Notes

Connectivity: It’s 30 km from Buenos Aires (30–40 min by car or train on Ruta Nacional 9). The closest airports with regular flights are SABE (Aeroparque, 25 km) and SAEZ (Ezeiza, 40 km).

Accessibility: City spots are 2–5 km away (taxi: 1,000–2,000 ARS); farther places may need a car or boat. Trains and buses go to Buenos Aires (30 km).

Seasonal Highlights: Summer (Dec–Feb) is excellent for boating; spring (Sep–Nov) for markets and mild weather; winter (Jun–Aug) is quieter.

Practical Tips: Bring ARS cash; book a place to stay (like Hotel Jacarandá) for weekends; try fresh fish at Restaurante María Luján in Tigre. Call Aeroclub San Fernando (+54 11 421 234) for plane help.